Generic Zantac - ranitidine - is in a class of drugs called histamine receptor antagonists. Zantac works by decreasing the amount of acid the stomach produces. Zantac is used to treat and prevent ulcers in the stomach and intestines. Ranitidine is also used to treat conditions in which the stomach produces too much acid and conditions in which acid comes up into the esophagus and causes heartburn, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Zantac can relieve ulcer pain and discomfort, and the heartburn from acid reflux.


 

FAQ

How does Zantac work?
Zantac (brand name made by GlaxoSmithKline) or Ranitidine (generic Zantac) is known as a histamine blocker or an H2-receptor blocker. Although Ranitidine blocks histamine in the stomach, it cannot be used in place of antihistamine used to treat runny noses and watery eyes. Zantac works primarily in the stomach and intestines. In most cases therapy is needed for 4-8 weeks to produce ulcer healing. Some patients may need long term preventative therapy with lower doses taken at bedtime.

Zantac dosing
May be taken with or without food. Since ranitidine is excreted by the kidney and metabolized by the liver, dosages of ranitidine need to be lowered in patients with significantly abnormal liver or kidney function.

• Take each dose with a full glass of water.
• To ensure that you get the correct dose, measure the liquid form of ranitidine with a dose-measuring spoon or cup, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one.
• Dissolve the Zantac 150 mg EFFERdose Tablets in approximately 6 to 8 ounces of water before drinking.
• Do not stop taking Zantac without first talking to your doctor. It may take up to 8 weeks for an ulcer to heal.

ZANTAC EFFERdose contains phenylalanine. The ZANTAC EFFERdose Tablet should be completely dissolved. Tablet is not to be chewed, swallowed whole, or dissolved on the tongue.

Zantac side effects
Minor side effects of Zantac include constipation, diarrhea, fatigue, headache, insomnia, muscle pain, nausea, and vomiting. Major side effects are rare; they include: agitation, anemia, confusion, depression, easy bruising or bleeding, hallucinations, hair loss, irregular heartbeat, rash, visual changes, and yellowing of the skin or eyes.

Special warnings about Zantac
Before taking ranitidine, tell your doctor if you have
     · kidney disease;
     · liver disease; or
     · porphyria.
You may not be able to take Zantac, or you may require a dosage adjustmentor special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.